The Strathcona Regional District (SRD) has introduced a FireSmart Homeowner Rebate program for properties in the Village of Sayward, offering residents up to $3,000 to complete wildfire risk-reduction work around their homes. The initiative is designed to accelerate mitigation measures ahead of the 2026 fire season while stretching limited public funding through a cost-sharing model. In a release Tuesday, the SRD said the rebates apply to work completed within 30 metres of a structure and recommended through a FireSmart Home Assessment. The focus on the immediate surroundings of a home reflects national wildfire research indicating most structural losses begin with…
Author: Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock is a business correspondent for Wire Service Canada, reporting on corporate developments, market trends, and economic news with clarity and accuracy. With over a decade of experience in journalism, he has covered stories ranging from financial results and trade agreements to emerging innovations, offering readers both local insight and global context. Known for his balanced and engaging reporting style, Sam is committed to delivering reliable, relevant, and timely business news that helps audiences make informed decisions.
Ontario’s Office of the Chief Coroner has announced a forthcoming inquest into the death of 50-year-old Taher Hashemi, who died while in custody at the Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre in August 2021. The inquest, which is mandatory under Ontario’s Coroners Act, will examine the circumstances surrounding his death and may result in recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. Mandatory Inquest Under the Coroners Act In a statement released Tuesday, Dr. Louise McNaughton-Filion, Regional Supervising Coroner for the East Region (Ottawa Office), confirmed that an inquest will be convened to investigate the death. “Mr. Hashemi, 50 years old, died…
The Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) marked its 46th year with one of its most dynamic programs to date, drawing writers and readers from across the world to Toronto’s Victoria University from October 29 to November 2. This year’s edition featured more than 100 events, including high-profile author talks, panels, workshops, and book signings that celebrated both international and Canadian literary voices. A New Chapter for a Celebrated Institution The 2025 Festival was especially significant as TIFA’s first year operating as an independent organization. The move marks a new chapter in its long-standing mission to champion literary excellence while…
At the World Nuclear Exhibition in Paris, Ontario showcased its growing influence in global nuclear energy development, announcing a new partnership aimed at advancing small modular reactor (SMR) technology in Europe. Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and the Belgian Nuclear Forum have signed a letter of intent (LOI) to explore deploying Ontario-made SMRs in Belgium, reinforcing the province’s leadership in clean and reliable energy innovation. Strengthening Global Energy Ties The agreement marks another step in Ontario’s strategy to export its nuclear expertise to international markets. “As countries around the world look for affordable, reliable and clean energy, Ontario is leading the…
CAMBRIDGE, Ontario — The Ontario government has announced the opening of a new Youth Wellness Hub in Cambridge, part of a major provincial effort to make mental health and substance use services more accessible for young people. The new site joins a growing network of hubs designed to deliver integrated, community-based care across Ontario. The Cambridge Youth Wellness Hub is one of 10 new locations being added to the existing network of 24 sites, bringing the total to 32 hubs province-wide. The initiative is part of Ontario’s broader plan to strengthen the mental health and addictions system through coordinated, youth-focused…
CAMBRIDGE, Ontario — The City of Cambridge has unveiled its full programme for Winterfest 2025, a six-week celebration running from 15 November to 31 December, featuring a packed schedule of family-friendly festivities, community events, and seasonal attractions — including the return of Candyland and the addition of the Santa Claus Parade. The popular festival, which draws thousands of visitors each year, aims to bring residents together for what the city describes as “the magic of the season.” This year’s expanded programme includes light displays, live performances, artisan markets, and a family New Year’s Eve celebration. “Winterfest offers residents many opportunities…
TORONTO — Ontario is observing the 10th annual Treaties Recognition Week, an initiative aimed at promoting public understanding of the treaties and agreements that underpin the province’s relationships with Indigenous communities. The government said the occasion serves as both a reminder of historic commitments and a call to strengthen partnerships for future shared prosperity. The statement was issued by Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships, who emphasised the enduring importance of these agreements in shaping Ontario’s economic and social development. Building partnerships for reconciliation…
TORONTO — Ontario has officially concluded its 2025 wildland fire season, marking one of the most demanding years in recent memory with 643 fires recorded between April and October and nearly 600,000 hectares burned. In response, the province has announced new measures to strengthen its firefighting capabilities, including 68 new permanent positions and a major investment in six new waterbombers to bolster its air fleet for future seasons. The announcement came as the Ministry of Natural Resources confirmed that, despite an early and active start to the season, coordinated action by frontline crews, aviation services, Indigenous communities, and local authorities…
CANMORE, Alberta — Canada’s top biathletes are set to launch their 2025 season with a decisive round of competition in Canmore, Alberta, where the nation’s best will race for coveted spots on international teams heading into the Olympic year. The Biathlon Canada Trials, taking place from November 4 to 8 at the Canmore Nordic Centre, will see more than 55 athletes compete across three high-stakes events. Performances at the trials will determine who earns selection for the opening World Cup Tour, as well as the IBU Cup and Junior IBU Cup Tours, which mark the beginning of the global competition…
Toronto – The Government of Ontario has announced a $26.7 million investment over the next two years to expand emergency shelter capacity and strengthen family court support services for survivors of gender-based violence. The funding, revealed by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, forms part of the province’s wider plan to improve access to protection, justice, and wrap-around services for victims. The initiative aims to enhance both the number of available shelter spaces and the accessibility of legal and community supports across Ontario. Expanding frontline capacity Under the new programme, the province will support more than 65 emergency…